December 8, 1978 – Writer-director Michael Cimino’s second film, “The Deer Hunter” premiered in Los Angeles on this day. The disturbing drama, which follows three hometown friends to and from Vietnam, earned nine Academy Award nominations, taking home five, including statues for best picture, director, and supporting actor for Christopher Walken.

December 8, 1978 – Writer-director Michael Cimino’s second film, “The Deer Hunter” premiered in Los Angeles on this day. The disturbing drama, which follows three hometown friends to and from Vietnam, earned nine Academy Award nominations, taking home five, including statues for best picture, director, and supporting actor for Christopher Walken.